Policies to Support Inclusive Innovation

Christopher Foster and Richard Heeks

Abstract

Innovation can help fight inequality and social exclusion. But, at present, there are too many barriers to this form of “inclusive innovation”. New government policies are essential to reduce these barriers and new measures are needed to drive inclusive innovation forward. These must encourage formal innovation systems to focus on the poor; help low-income actors to adapt, diffuse and use innovations; and work to address structural roadblocks.

In addition, new policy worldviews, processes and structures are required. This paper outlines a systemic approach that explains the rationale, objectives, goals, instruments and governance which will help governments support the expansion of inclusive innovation.